KBC Announces Date For Shepherding 2026 Conference: Registration Is Now Open

A Weekend of Renewal for Ministry Couples

Each year, the Kentucky Baptist Convention (KBC) hosts a special weekend conference titled Shepherding. This gathering is designed specifically for pastors and their wives, offering a time of renewal, refreshment, and encouragement in ministry.

Using the words of the Apostle Paul in Acts 20:28—“Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.”—the conference pursues two entwined goals: caring for ministry couples themselves and empowering them to shepherd their congregations well.

What the Weekend Looks Like

Here’s a breakdown of what pastors and their spouses can expect:

• Location & TimingThe venue is the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa in Lexington, Kentucky. For the 2026 instance, the dates are January 29–31. Registration begins at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday and concludes before noon Saturday.

  
  

• Who’s InvitedThe conference invites pastors and their wives—couples in ministry who often serve at the intersection of church leadership and home life

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• Structure of the WeekendA typical schedule includes:

  • Thursday afternoon starting with registration, a general session, evening dinner and worship.

  • Friday morning and afternoon: general session(s), breakout tracks, lunch, and an evening “date night” (dinner on your own) with the conference covering most meals except that special evening. (Kentucky Baptist Convention)

  • Saturday: final breakfast, a concluding general session, and departure before noon.

    
    

• Cost & Registration NotesThere's a registration fee (for example, $300 per couple for the 2026 event) which includes lodging, conference materials, and meals (excluding the Friday night “date night”). The fee covers only part of the cost; the remainder is subsidized by the Cooperative Program.

  
  

Why It Matters

Ministry is rewarding—but it’s also demanding, and it places unique stresses on couples who serve together in pastoral contexts. Here are several reasons why Shepherding is a meaningful event:

1. Renewal for the ShepherdsThe tagline speaks of being “refreshed in your ministry at the most beloved weekend of the year for pastors and their wives.” (Kentucky Baptist Convention)It creates space away from the day-to-day church routine so couples can pause, reflect, connect, and be refreshed.

2. Dual Focus: Self and FlockAccording to KBC’s description, the conference is designed “with both those in mind” — caring for the shepherds and enabling their shepherding of the flock. (Kentucky Baptist Convention)This holistic approach recognizes that healthy ministry stems from healthy leaders.

3. Community & EncouragementPastors and their wives from across Kentucky gather together, share experiences, engage breakout sessions, and build relationships. According to a past article: “Nearly 140 couples… gathered … for a time of refreshment, encouragement, and fellowship.” (Kentucky Baptist Convention)The chance to be together with others who understand the joys and burdens of pastoral life is powerful.

4. Practical & Spiritual InputThe conference features plenary sessions, worship, breakout options on relevant topics (e.g., conflict resolution, ministry health, personal discipleship) and also times to connect informally (coffee & connections). (Kentucky Baptist Convention)This ensures the weekend is not merely a retreat, but a place of growth and equipping.

5. Marriage-FocusedBy inviting pastors and their wives, the event honours the vital role of the spouse in ministry life. It provides a shared experience where both partners can be ministered to and encouraged.

   
   

Takeaway for Churches & Leaders

If you’re a pastor or ministry spouse (or know one), consider the following:

• Prioritise the retreat as an investment – The cost, time away, and registration all signal that this is a strategic investment in your ministry health, not just another conference.

• Arrive with openness – Come expecting to rest, reflect, connect, and allow God to refresh you and your spouse together.

• Leverage the relationships – Use the breakout sessions and informal times to connect with peers, ask questions, and build support networks.

• Return renewed – Use what you gain to bring new energy, balance, and vision back to your ministry, church, and marriage.

• Plan early – Space is limited and registration opens ahead of time. As noted, some registrations close earlier and cancellations may be subject to waitlists. (kentuckybaptist-ccr.regfox.com)

  
  

The Shepherding weekend from the Kentucky Baptist Convention offers a unique rhythm of pause, refresh, and renew— tailored for those who serve and lead in ministry alongside their spouse. Through powerful teaching, worship, community, and hospitality, it seeks to strengthen the shepherds so they may lead the flock well. As the conference materials highlight: “Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.”